All too often in education, we allow excellent service to children pass by without written comment or commendation. Nurse Nyla Petrahai, also known as "Nurse Nyla," is a fine example of a nurse practitioner who gives excellent service to children. Chapel Street Elementary School has a diverse population of 518 students. Nurse Nyla is so much more than a nurse. She often occupies the roles of educator, mentor, quasi administrator, and social worker.

In her role as an educator, Nurse Nyla educates the staff at the beginning of the school year by reviewing food allergies, the use of epi pens, and blood borne pathogenes. During the year, she makes it a point to visit each classroom to educate students on how to minimize passing along germs by teaching proper handwashing techniques and how to properly direct a sneeze or cough so that germs are not widespread. In addition, she works with colleagues in the district to host the girls' talk that is given annually to students in grade six. Nurse Nyla puts together a comprehensive presentation on puberty for girls. When she is not administering medicine or taking care of a cut, she often mentors the students she treats.

Students often visit with Nurse Nyla to seek advice or to be listened to Nurse Nyla has such a way with students, as she is very caring and nurturing. Students feel comfortable and are willing to share their feelings or share what is going on with them personally because they know she cares. Every week, she has students in her office for lunch. She is often part of a strategic plan for students who have difficulty interacting with their peers. These students often look forward to spending time with her. She often speaks with students about academics and always trying their best. Recently, she mentored a high school student who has ambitions to become a nurse. The student spent 12 weeks job shadowing Nurse Nyla, learning all that she could learn before heading off to college.

"As principal, I am very grateful to have Nurse Nyla work alongside me," Armistead said. "We have cases where students are in crisis, and she is very instrumental in ensuring that these students get the much needed support they deserve."

Nurse Nyla is very instrumental in reaching out to families to discuss medical and other needs. Moreover, she is a member of the pupil services team and helps to support students who receive tiered intervention for behavior. Nurse Nyla also serves on the schoolwide Safety Committee and is part of the Crisis Intervention Team. Every day, she calls the homes of students who are absent. She is an important member of the administrative team.

As social worker, Nurse Nyla counsels a lot of students and works closely with their families. A first grade student visited her and complained that his feet were hurting. It turned out that the student's shoes were too small. Without hesitation, she went out and bought the student a new pair of shoes. She would often buy articles of clothing for students who were in need. There was one little student who would come in disheveled. Nurse Nyla would get the student cleaned up and provide the student with clean clothes before sending the student to class. Moreover, she is always willing to make a home visit when necessary.

Nurse Nyla is a beloved member in her school community. She is well respected among faculty and staff, along with students and their families. She recently celebrated her 60th birthday. The entire school made her day very special by decorating a hallway in her honor. Students made cards and expressed how much they really appreciated her. When students arrive in the morning, Nurse Nyla is always standing at her door, greeting the sea of students with a smile and a good morning. At the end of the school day, every student rushes up to her to give her a high five as they walk out the building to get on their bus.

"Nurse Nyla has made such a wonderful difference in our school and in the lives of many of our students. She exudes energy and passion, and lifts all of us up at Chapel. Whenever we have a PTA event, or any after school or evening activity, you can be sure that Nurse Nyla is there to support the students." Armistead said.

Comments (7)

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Holly Grande Posted over a year ago

Nurse Nyla has made a significant difference in the lives of both the students and staff at Chapel Street School. Her dedication to the physical and emotional well being of each student is demonstrated each day. Nurse Nyla makes me smile even during the difficult times.

Robin Celentano Posted over a year ago

Nurse Nyla is an inspiration to our school community. In addition to being an expert in her field, she has captured the hearts of all students and staff. She always remains positive and strong. Her energy, compassion and dedication are infectious.

Randi Bluemer Posted over a year ago

Whenever I have a question about one of my students she never hesitates to have me come to her office. She always says good morning to the students and staff.

Amy Posted over a year ago

Nurse Nyla is a perfect example of someone who is a life changer. She is a key member of our Chapel Street Elementary School community. She is a very compassionate and nurturing person. She is always there for the students and staff in any situation. She is truly loved by all!

Pauine Posted over a year ago

Nurse Nyla is dedicated, caring, compassionate, and a great listener! She truly cares for the students and staff. She is always willing to go above and beyond to help the students. Nurse Nyla is the BEST!

Meredith Posted over a year ago

Nurse Nyla is truly an amazing nurse and an even more wonderful person. She is warm, caring and dedicated. She puts her heart into everything she does and the children will often seek her out for a warm hug or kind word. Her door is always open to staff and students alike. Nurse Nyla has a positivity that is contagious and that touches the lives of each of her students and her colleagues.

Eric Posted over a year ago

Nurse Nyla goes above and beyond each day. Not only does she take care of our students' health needs but she can always be counted on during a crisis and can often be found lending a listening ear to staff and parents. There's no doubt Nurse Nyla is a key member of our community and is truly a lifechanger for so many.